Devotees play ancient fire game to please deity

Mangalore Today News Network

Kateel, Apr 23: A unique ritual called “Agni Keli” or “Toothedhara” can be witnessed during the 8-day festival of Kateel Durgaparameshwari Temple. The tradition of two groups of villagers throwing burning fronds of palm at each other has been practiced for centuries.

 

 

One of the people in a group throws the burning fronds of palm at the other group. The burning fronds are not thrown at any individual in particular, but at the entire group. A person from the other group picks up the frond and throws it back. This happens for five rounds, after which the burning frond is discarded. Those who suffer burns are treated with the water of kumkumarchane. The ritual lasts for quarter of an hour. 

Agni Keli is held on the second day of the 8-day festival of Durgparameshwari.